European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso (L), South African President Jacob Zuma (C) and President of the European Council Herman Van Rompuy attend a press conference held in Skukuza, South Africa, Sept. 15, 2011. South Africa and the European Union (EU) on Thursday expressed their common objective to see the formation of an inclusive interim government in Libya. (Xinhua/Li Qihua)

"We recognize National Transitional Council (NTC) as the legitimate representative of the Libyan people, and even ready to recognize they can take the seat of Libya in UN," President of the European Council Herman Van Rompuy told the media after the fourth South Africa-EU summit held in Skukuza Venue of Kruger National Park, famous for its herds of elephants and other big game.

The summit, which was concluded on Thursday, has focused on issues on Libya, as well as trade between EU and South Africa.

The AU High-Level ad hoc Committee on Libya met at the level of heads of state and government in Pretoria earlier this week to call for an "all inclusive government in Libya." The pan-African body has not recognized NTC as the legitimate government of Libya.

"Even if we had differences in the past, I think we share the future," Herman Van Rompuy said.

He said the future belongs to the Libyan people, adding that NTC have to broaden the government as soon as possible to make it more representative of the Libyan people.

According to a joint communique, both sides expressed their "common objective to see the formation of an inclusive interim government in Libya that will rebuild the country for the benefit of all Libyans."

"The goal being to build a new, democratic and pluralistic Libya in which human rights, fundamental freedoms and justice will be guaranteed and prosperity shared," it said.

"On the whole we are all very happy with the content and depth of discussions. Indeed, today's meeting has helped to further consolidate our continued dialogue and engagement with the European Union," South African President Jacob Zuma said in the media briefing.